A PROJECT to help young carers develop a future beyond their caring roles is being launched by Brentford FC Community Sports Trust to mark Young Carers Awareness Day (Jan 25).

With research showing that 70% of young carers are NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training), the project – called the Get Set programme – will support young carers in Ealing through training and employment opportunities.  

Ali Umar, a young carer for his mum, will certainly reap the benefits from the project.  

He said: “I take care of my younger siblings and think of them before I think of myself. In practical terms, I take them to school, make food for them and look after them. 

“Basically, I’ve had to grow up a lot faster because I have to think like a grown-up.” 

The project hopes to bridge the gap for young carers who are often denied training and education opportunities due to their care commitments.

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The programme will include work visits, placements, CV writing support and workshops with potential employers.

Brentford FC already run a successful young carers’ project. Last year alone, the trust worked with nearly 200 young carers through educational and sporting activities. 

Lee Doyle, chief executive of Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, said: “Since Ealing Council commissioned [us] to run their young carers programme we have increased participation in the programme from 25 young carers to nearly 200.

“The Get Set programme aims to enhance the existing project and empower young carers to achieve their life goals, regardless of their personal circumstances.”

The Get Set Programme is funded by the Pathways charity and the Fearless Foundation, set up in memory of Danny Fullbrook, sports journalist for the Daily Star.

Mark Dickinson, who helped set up the Fearless Foundation, said: “The ethos has always been about inspiring young people to achieve their goals. This project will help young carers receive the specialist training and support they vitally need.”